Hello Illini Nation!

We kicked off our season with an awesome trip to Arizona. We were lucky to have had good weather, golf, and great company throughout our time in Peoria. We arrived a day early for the opportunity of practicing and playing at Desert Mountain with Rick Heiken and other Illinois alumni and supporters. Geronimo is a great course that provided some good preparation for the upcoming days!

Following our practice and play at Desert Mountain, we headed over to the Broeren's for dinner with more Illinois alumni and supporters. Anita went all out for us! She made homemade pasta with meatballs and even went out of her way for me to meet my dietary restrictions by making a separate gluten free, dairy free, soy free stew! Everything was so delicious and it was great to be able to mingle with everyone who could make it that night. Her hospitality, love, and support is something we look forward to each year, so thanks again for having us!!

The fun doesn't stop there though! The following night we had another feast, but with our host families this time, the Holts, Phelps, Masons and Thaxtons! We had a wonderful time laughing, eating, sharing and making memories that we will keep with us for a long time.

The next two days of tournament play were fun, challenging and successful. The ground was firm, which made it difficult to hit and hold the greens, but we found ways to make it work. We walked away with a fourth place finish and an individual third place finish by our freshman Tristyn! I'd say it was a successful start to the spring season!

Until next time!

Stephanie Miller